Hidden Travel Costs
Travel can be unexpectedly Pricey
Budgeting for a long trip lasting several months can be very difficult and so it is important that you consider all costs. However, some costs are not always apparent until you come across them on the road. Below I have created a list of surprise costs I encountered on my travels so you can budget these into you cost estimations. For further help on budgeting, please see my article Budgeting For travel.
Departure Tax: Some countries charge you when you leave. Occasionally airline tickets include the departure tax in the price and so it is advisable to read the small print or double check this with your travel agent. I have never paid more than £10 ($20) in departure tax but be prepared for the cost to be a little higher. New Zealand and Cook Islands definitely charge departure tax.
Airport Transfers: Many airports are out of the city centre and a transfer will be essential. The cheapest option is a bus or a tube if it extends far enough. Failing this, there are many companies that offer shared mini vans or taxis but will still cost a fair bit. Expect to pay more for late night transfers but be vigilant as there are many scams operating in this market. If you have many flights on your travels be sure to budget this cost in as it can be significant.
Internet Access: Whether you are checking the weather or uploading photos to the Internet the cost of frequent access can add up. You may be tempted to take a laptop with you as hostels can have free wireless access but this can be liable to theft. The Internet is generally cheap in south east Asia but if you wish to use it frequently in Australasia, America, or the Pacific Islands expect it to burn a hole in your wallet over a period of weeks and months.
Tips/Service Charges: Generally they will be a small expense, but again over time they will add up. If you do eat in a lot of restaurants inevitably you will pay tips so try to choose places where there is not table service such as food courts. Note that in the USA service charge is 15% as standard but other countries such as Japan will not accept a tip.
City Transport: Getting around and about cities quickly is essential when seeing the sights. Larger cities in more developed countries do have underground systems which are very useful and seem to be good value but the expenditure can add up if over used. Tuktuks in Asia are a very cheap and quick way to get around but if using one be sure to agree a price before entering the vehicle.
Telephone Calls: If you plan on making calls home it is best to use a phone card as they offer communication at a discounted rate. Even better is to use an Internet cafe with skype as it will only cost the price of the Internet session.
Deposits: We all know we can get deposits back or they will be put towards the final price. However, it is not wise to book multiple hostels or activities in advance as you will end up taking a significant proportion out of your budget. It is best to book hostels and activities two or three locations ahead but no further unless they are popular and get booked up quickly.
Souvenirs: People can easily get carried away with presents and souvenirs. In markets where everything can seem very cheap it can be dangerous to keep buying. Although goods are usually at bargain prices, too many purchases that you did not budget for can hit you hard later on in your trip. Having said that, always buy souvenirs when you see them as you may not see them again in other markets.
Snacks: It is normal to budget for three meals a day but is common to snack more when your are on the move and burning more calories and when there is lots of new food to try. Work out a daily food budget and then add 10% to it for a more realistic estimate.